Exploring The Antique Automobile Club Of America
With members in all 50 states and more than 50 countries around the world, the Antique Automobile Club of America is one of the largest and most prestigious organizations of its kind on the planet. Since its inception in 1935 with only about 14 members, the club has grown to boast 400 regional and localized chapters throughout the world.
The AACA dedicates itself to celebrating and preserving the pioneering days of automobile history. Although it focuses primarily on antique cars from the golden era of motoring, the club does define its scope in a much broader sense. It technically represents all vehicles that are self-propelled and meant for passenger use. This means it also welcomes club members with an interest in race vehicles, cars, trucks, motorcycles, powered bicycles and even fire trucks. In addition, it sets no real boundaries on the type of propulsion used in an antique vehicle. It welcomes vehicles powered not only by gasoline, but also steam, electric and diesel.
Headquartered in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the Antique Automobile Club of America was formed when a group of men came together to share their passion for vintage vehicles. The first real meeting was held in 1935 in Philadelphia. The club grew modestly at first, boasting 1,400 members by 1949. It took off in leaps bounds, however, over the next few decades. By 1985, it had more than 50,000 members worldwide. Membership today runs in the tens of thousands and includes people from all over the globe with a shared passion for antique automobiles.
Members of the AACA do not have to actually own vehicles to join. The club even welcomes junior members, who are youngsters up to age 12. Older children are also invited to join, as are adults regardless of their status as antique vehicle owners.
While one of the primary focuses of the AACA is to keep history alive through its library and museum, the club also offers members a number of related benefits. Members can take part in such things as:
- Meets – These are held in a variety of categories throughout the year and are often hosted by regional or localized chapters. Requirements for entry can vary based on the focus of the specific meets.
- Tours – These are meant to enable owners to show off their classic cars along with other owners. The club plays host to a variety of tours, many of which are restricted to vehicles produced during very specific time periods. Some tours, however, are open to all non-racing vehicles that are at least 25 years of age and older.
- Forums – The AACA maintains a forum for its members that help create a sense of community among antique vehicle owners and enthusiasts.
- Meetings – While local and regional clubs do host their own meetings, the biggest gathering each year is the annual meeting in Philadelphia. This event features conferences and workshops designed to educate members about the history of automobiles, proper restoration practices and more.
Classic and vintage car lovers looking for a welcoming home to share their passion often discover the Antique Automobile Club of America is right up their alley. To find out more about this international organization, visit www.aaca.org.
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